WVMC Collaborates with Chemeketa for Career Connected Learning
August 15, 2024
Chemeketa Community College-Yamhill Valley Campus is enhancing career-connected learning experiences for students in Yamhill and Polk Counties with funds from the Career Connected Learning Systems Navigator grant. The grant was funded by the Oregon Department of Education's Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund III (ESSER III). Chemeketa’s focus is to create opportunities for rural students to explore potential career paths within their own communities.
On July 23, 2024, students had the opportunity to visit Willamette Valley Medical Center for an exclusive behind-the-scenes exploration of various departments. During the visit, they discussed career options and tested medical instruments. In the Med Surg unit, students used a vein finder, while the Pharmacy focused on medication safety. The Lab showcased bacteria cultivation and blood transfusion practices, and the Birthing Center tour included a look at labor rooms and equipment.
Notable hands-on experiences were provided in the Operating Room, Emergency Department, and Imaging. In the Operating Room, students donned gowns and performed a simulated surgery by removing a liver (a stress ball) from a mannequin patient using Balfour retractors and a suction system. They also saw instruments commonly used during surgery and monitored their oxygen levels using an anesthesia ventilator machine.
In the Emergency Department, students got hands-on with a code cart and even activated the charge and shock functions on a defibrillator, making sure to yell “clear” just like on TV. Finally, in Imaging, students chose various objects to X-ray and got to keep the X-rays of their work.
The experience was capped off with a special lunch, including WVMC’s famous giant chocolate chip cookies, where students debriefed and discussed what they had learned.
“Workforce development is crucial at every stage of life. We take pride in offering students the chance to explore various medical careers and specialties through hands-on activities. Chemeketa is an excellent partner to Willamette, and we’re excited to continue creating more opportunities like this in the future.” stated Anna Hilts, manager of Workforce Development and Education.
Following this eye-opening experience, the students visited Chemeketa Community College’s medical assisting lab, where faculty and staff engaged students in other healthcare industry skill exploration. Students learned about germs and explored different blood components. This immersive experience not only provided them with practical knowledge but also allowed them to envision themselves thriving in a college environment, inspiring their future educational and career aspirations.
“By investing in these initiatives, educators and coordinators are empowered to design and implement programs that address the specific needs and opportunities found in rural areas, ensuring that students gain valuable insights and experiences.” shared Paul Davis, dean of Yamhill Valley Career and Technical Education. “We are so thankful for the experiences the students had a WVMC. We look forward to returning in September with another group of students.” Davis added.